More than 1,000 schools to launch projects to stamp out homophobic bullying

More than 1,000 schools to launch projects to stamp out homophobic bullying

December 8, 2017

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It’s all part of a £3 million initiative led by the Government Equalities Office.

It’s been announced that more than 1,000 schools across the UK will launch project to stamp out homophobic, biphobic and transphobic (HBT) bullying in the classroom.

The new initiative aims to ensure children are free from being discriminated against and bullied for their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Minister for School Standards and Equalities, Nick Gibb, hopes the effective measures will be in place to protect pupils.

Primary and secondary schools across the country will partner up with organisations such as Stonewall, Barnardo’s and the National Children’s Bureau to educate them on topics such as respect and acceptance in an age-appropriate way.

“Bullying at school is cruel, particularly at a time when LGBT pupils are coming to terms with their sexuality or gender,” said Nick Gibb.

“I am determined that we stamp out the use of the word ‘gay’ as a pejorative term and prevent bullying of all kinds so pupils feel safe and able to achieve their full potential.”

He added: “I’m delighted that so many schools across the country will be participating in this programme.

“By creating a culture of acceptance and respect in our classrooms we can support young people as they discover who they are.”

Levels of HBT bullying in schools have decreased by a third since 2012, according to Stonewall’s 2017 School Report.

This new programme is also part of the government’s wider aim to deliver greater equality for the LGBT+ community.

Earlier this year, the government announced the launch of the national LGBT survey to drive progress.

Over 95,000 people have already completed it, and you can too before 15 October.